6.2.2. The CMOS Inverter

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does a CMOS inverter do?

   Hint

   Think about how the output changes when the input changes.

2. 2.

   Which transistor conducts when the input is high in a CMOS inverter?

   Hint

   Remember the behavior of NMOS transistors.

3. 3.

   What type of logic operation does a CMOS inverter perform?

   • AND
   • OR
   • NOT

   Hint

   Consider the primary function of the inverter.

4. 4.

   True or False: An NMOS transistor conducts when the input is low.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Remember the voltage conditions for NMOS operation.

5. 5.

   Develop a design specification for a CMOS inverter part of a larger digital circuit. Include estimated input and output voltages, and discuss the importance of selecting adequate transistor sizes.

   Hint

   Think about how varying Vdd can affect your logic levels.

6. 6.

   Analyze the efficiency of a CMOS inverter in terms of power consumption and propagation delay when used in rapid switching applications.

   Hint

   Consider how both dynamic and static power contribute to total energy consumption.